RocJocks: Bob Davies was one of NBA's early stars

After returning from military service in 1946, Bob Davies weighed his job options: playing professional basketball in Rochester or returning to his alma mater to serve as head coach. He decided to do both, guiding Seton Hall to a 24-3 record while winning the National Basketball League's Most Valuable Player as a member of the Royals.

He gave up coaching after that one hectic season, but Davies spent 10 more years playing for the Rochester Royals. His dazzling ball-handling skills and shot making helped drive a higher-scoring style of play in the early days of the National Basketball Association. He is credited with originating the behind-the-back and through-the-legs dribbles.

Davies helped guide the Royals to championships in 1946 and 1951. He was a four-time all-star and one of 10 players named to the NBA 25th Anniversary Team in 1971. He was inducted into the basketball Hall of Fame in 1970.

Each week, we recognize a great sports figure from the Rochester area. See the complete list and read more about each figure and their accomplishments online, at RocDocs.com/RocJocks.

Many readers wrote in to nominate Davies, including Gary Larder, Mary Smith and Alex Votto.

Whose name should we add next? Send an email to slahman@gannett.com with your suggestions, or share your ideas on our Facebook page.